Ebola virus disease and hantaviruses have received renewed attention in recent weeks because they pose a significant risk to public health. Although these are completely different diseases, both can begin with similar symptoms and require strict infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures to limit the risk of infection.
Recently published articles CMJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) highlights important information about these diseases for healthcare professionals.
Hantavirus cases and risks
Hantavirus is a nationally reported disease in Canada. Approximately four to five cases are confirmed and reported to public health authorities each year. Most infections occur after exposure to rodents in agricultural areas of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia.
One strain, known as Andes virus, is unusual because it can be transmitted from person to person.
Hantavirus symptoms and diagnosis
Different hantavirus strains can cause different forms of the disease. Infections in North and South America, including Andes virus, which has been in the news recently, can cause hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome. In Europe and Asia, hantaviruses are more commonly associated with hemorrhagic fevers and renal dysfunction.
The incubation period for both forms is usually 2 to 4 weeks. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and abdominal pain.
Diagnosis is by serology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. These tests are conducted by the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg.
Hantavirus treatment and infection control
Currently, there are no approved antiviral drugs or vaccines specific for hantaviruses. As a result, treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and complications.
Due to the potential for transmission, strict infection prevention and control measures are required when Andes virus infection is suspected. Patients should be isolated using airborne, droplet, and contact precautions. Infectious disease experts should be involved in case management and public health authorities should be notified.
Ebola virus infection and the ongoing epidemic
Since Ebola was first identified in 1976, outbreaks of Ebola have occurred periodically in Central and West Africa. Three main Ebola viruses are known to infect humans, and researchers believe fruit bats are a natural source.
The virus is spread by direct contact with body fluids such as blood, vomit, diarrhea, and semen. It can also be spread by touching contaminated objects or surfaces.
Current outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo include: Bundibugyo Ebola virusthe mortality rate is reported to be 30% to 50%.
Ebola hemorrhagic fever symptoms and testing
Ebola hemorrhagic fever is often associated with bleeding, but less than half of patients develop bleeding symptoms.
Typical symptoms include fever of 38°C or higher, fatigue, muscle pain, and gastrointestinal problems. The incubation period is 2 to 21 days.
Diagnosis is confirmed by PCR testing.
Anyone who develops symptoms and may be at risk of exposure should be evaluated and tested. This includes travelers who have recently visited countries with Ebola outbreaks and people who have had close contact with infected people or bats, primates, or game animals in endemic areas.
Progress and limitations of Ebola hemorrhagic fever treatment
Suspected Ebola patients require strict infection prevention and control procedures. Health Canada recommends detailed screening and assessment protocols, along with extensive protective equipment such as fit-tested N95 masks, face shields, gloves, and liquid-impermeable clothing.
Significant progress has been made in preventing and treating some forms of Ebola. Vaccine targeting zaire ebola virus It has proven to be highly effective, reducing mortality from 50% to 35% with two antiviral treatments.
However, there are currently no approved vaccines or therapeutics for prevention or treatment. Bundibugyo Ebola virus. Supportive care remains the main treatment option for patients infected with this strain.
